Compare Valium vs. Unisom

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

Helps you relax. Valium (Diazepam) is okay for occasional or short-term use (up to 4 weeks) for anxiety and for pain and sleeplessness from muscle spasm. Less severe withdrawal symptoms compared to similar drugs.

Treats allergy symptoms and helps you sleep. Unisom Sleeptabs (Doxylamine) can help you get a good night's sleep, but you can have a hard time waking up if you don't give yourself enough time to sleep.

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› Unisom Sleeptabs (Doxylamine) makes you tired, so take it before you go to sleep.

› Unisom comes in two different generic forms, doxylamine (Unisom SleepTabs) and diphenhydramine (other Unisom products). Both are antihistamines that help you sleep.

› People age 65 years and older have a higher risk of side effects from taking antihistamine medications like Unisom Sleeptabs (Doxylamine). Watch for changes in vision, severe dry mouth, trouble urinating, or constipation. The drowsiness caused by Unisom Sleeptabs (Doxylamine) can make you "unsteady" on your feet, leading to a higher chance of falls.

Weight

No specific weight-related info.

No specific weight-related info.

Upsides and benefits

Valium

Unisom

› Effective at relieving short-term anxiety and sleeplessness.

› Can be used together with antidepressants to manage anxiety disorders. Especially helpful for anxiety symptoms while you wait for an antidepressant to kick in (it can take several weeks).

› Effective at relieving muscle spasms caused by a variety of conditions.

› Less severe withdrawal symptoms compared to other benzodiazepines.

› Works well to help you fall asleep and doesn't make you feel groggy the next morning.

› Has fewer side effects than prescription sleep aid medications.

› Available over the counter without a prescription.

› Not habit-forming like other sleep aids can be.

Downsides and risks

Valium

Unisom

› Processed by the liver, so might not be the best choice if you have liver problems.

› Can cause memory problems, drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion.

› Can be habit-forming, so it's not typically used for long-term treatment, or for people who've had problems with drug or alcohol abuse.

› Most people find that it gets less effective over time.

› Shouldn't be used unless you have a full night to sleep.

› You shouldn't drive after taking Unisom Sleeptabs (Doxylamine) until you know how it affects you.